Start with a standout filter coffee at Bouche (quietly ranked among the world’s best) then lose yourself along Brugmann’s leafy boulevards. Pause in Tenbosch Park – a green hollow tucked between townhouses and ideal for a quick pistolet from the namesake deli celebrating Belgium’s beloved bread roll. As golden hour falls, slip onto Chez Richard’s sun-trap terrace for a crisp ‘half and half’ – a heady mix of white wine and champagne – before savouring sleek, cosmopolitan plates at Entropy. Overnight at The Standard, Brussels’ buzzy new stay with skyline views.

A flaky croissant and espresso from the Argentinian-inspired Le Petit Mercado will set you up for the 4 km loop through Parc de Forest and Parc Duden – leafy, hilly and blissfully under the radar. Refuel with colourful Buddha bowls and stuffed focaccia at the ever-stylish Archie, before browsing Rue Léon Lepage’s indie boutiques, including Stijl Brussel, a haven for contemporary fashion. As dusk falls, settle into Barracuda, a low-lit locals’ favourite where truffle pasta is theatrically carved tableside from a pecorino wheel.

Head east through Leuven, Tervuren, Diest and Hasselt – each a vignette of cobbled squares and green corridors – toward nature-steeped Maasmechelen Village. Start with a speciality brew from Izy Coffee, then browse more than 100 boutiques before a laidback lunch at its newest Asian-fusion hotspot, Cho Gao. Reserve time for a bike ride along Fietsen door de Mijnterrils before retreating to the stately Terhills Hotel. For dinner, book neighbouring Terland, where magnificent plates pair perfectly with stunning lakeside views.

Start your day at Hoge Kempen National Park, where a climb up the mine hill rewards you with panoramic views. Thrill-seekers can opt for an adrenaline rush at Terhills Cable Park or tackle the Aquapark’s climbs and challenges. If you’re after a slower pace, unwind at Elaisa Wellness Spa, a serene retreat spanning more than 7,500 square metres. As the day winds down, wrap up your adventure with dinner at Restaurant Ralf Berendsen, one of Belgium’s finest Michelin-starred establishments.